Close up video of stall handler incident at the curragh yesterday a very lucky man

jeeebus what a lucky guy

The Raceday Stewards enquired into the circumstances whereby a stall handler crossed in front of the stalls as they opened and was subsequently knocked to the ground. Evidence was heard from Mr J.R. Banahan, IHRB Senior Starter, Mr Emmanuel Behan, Stall Handler Team Leader and J.J.G. Ryan, rider of Royal Impact, who collided with the stall handler. Mr Banahan stated that he followed the correct procedure and started the race and was surprised to see a stall handler crossing in front of the horses as the gates opened. Mr Behan confirmed that the correct procedures were carried out and unfortunately a stall handler had dropped something in front of the stalls and turned back to pick it up without warning. He confirmed that the gentleman was uninjured by the incident. J.J.G. Ryan stated that a stall handler appeared from his left and that his mount knocked him down causing his horse to stumble and there was nothing he could do about it. Having considered the matter, the Raceday Stewards referred the matter to a Senior Racing Official for further investigation under the provisions of Rule 14(ii)(b).